304 Mental Performance & Wellness Protocols | Dr. Alex Auerbach, Toronto Raptors
Jul 9, 2023
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Dr. Alex Auerbach, Senior Director of Wellness and Development for the Toronto Raptors, discusses actionable strategies for fostering growth and development within teams. Topics include the importance of a healthy parent-athlete relationship, prioritizing well-being as a coach, and effective communication strategies in coaching.
A healthy parent-athlete relationship should prioritize engagement beyond the game and focus on the overall well-being of the child, including managing expectations and providing reassurance and support.
When athletes transition to higher levels of competition, coaches should suspend judgment, encourage them to anchor themselves to their strengths, and give them time to adjust and develop.
Deep dives
Importance of Setting Boundaries in Sports Parenting
Finding a healthy balance between investment in an athlete's performance and interest in their life outside of sports is crucial. A parent-athlete relationship should prioritize engagement beyond the game and focus on the overall well-being of the child. Educating parents about realistic outcomes and potential limitations can also help manage expectations and foster a healthy perspective on their child's athletic journey. Additionally, acknowledging an athlete's concern about parental love beyond sports can provide reassurance and support.
Tips for Athletes Transitioning to Higher Levels
When athletes make transitions to higher levels of competition, it's important to zoom out and give them enough time to adjust and develop. Suspending judgment during this transitional period allows athletes to focus on learning and acquiring new skills and patterns. Coaches should also encourage athletes to anchor themselves to their strengths and consistently utilize them during times of transition. By building upon their existing strengths, athletes can navigate the challenges and uncertainties that come with transitioning to a higher level of play.
The Importance of Honest and Direct Communication with Players
Coaches play a significant role in athletes' lives, and direct and honest communication is crucial for their development. Coaches should express care and concern while delivering feedback, focusing on the behavior or performance rather than criticizing the individual. Trusting athletes to understand and appreciate honest feedback fosters a supportive and open coach-player relationship. Curiosity and a willingness to understand players' perspectives can further enhance communication and build trust.
Prioritizing Well-being in Coaching
Coaching success should not solely be measured by performance outcomes. Good coaching is as much about fostering well-being as it is about achieving performance goals. Coaches need to prioritize their own well-being, seeking support and utilizing resources available to them. Building great relationships with athletes and making sound decisions depend on a coach's emotional and physical health. Recognizing the limitations of overworking and connecting one's identity solely to winning is crucial for long-term success in coaching.
JP and Nate are joined once again by their special guest, Dr. Alex Auerbach from the Toronto Raptors. Dr. Auerbach holds the position of Senior Director of Wellness and Development, overseeing the Offcourt Development of Leadership and Character within the organization. In this episode, the conversation transitions from exploring the three mindsets of mental performance to discussing specific protocols and practical steps that coaches and leaders can implement to support their teams and programs. The focus shifts towards actionable strategies aimed at fostering growth and development within their respective environments.